Vietnam-Spain Cooperation Forum: Uniting Innovation and Culture
Last Friday, the vibrant atmosphere of the InterContinental Hotel in Madrid was charged with excitement as the Vietnamese Embassy hosted the Vietnam-Spain Cooperation Forum: Uniting Innovation and Culture. This significant event attracted a diverse group of businesspeople and investors eager to explore potential trade relations between Spain and Vietnam, two countries rich in culture and economic potential.
Welcoming Remarks and Opening Insights
The forum commenced with welcoming remarks from key figures, including Ambassador Doan Thanh Song, Juan Luis Gimeno, Director General of Economic and Commercial Intelligence at the Spanish Ministry of Economy, Trade and Business, and Álvaro Schweinfurth, Deputy Director of the International and Multilateral Organizations Department at the Spanish Confederation of Business Organizations (CEOE). Their speeches set the tone for the day, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the two nations.
Exploring Tourism: A Cultural Bridge
The first panel, titled “Tourism: A Bridge Between Cultures,” delved into the roles of both Spain and Vietnam in the tourism sector. Moderated by Carmen Bedoya, Program Coordinator at Casa Asia, the session highlighted how Vietnam can enhance its position in high-end tourism. Panelists included notable figures such as Li Yang from the UNWTO, Thai Ha Hoang Pham from Vietnam Airlines, and Susanna Mander from Meliá Hotels International.
Discussions revolved around Vietnam’s tourism strategy, priority markets, and the importance of sustainable tourism development. The panelists shared experiences and best practices from Spain, focusing on how cultural preservation can coexist with modern tourism practices. This exchange of ideas underscored the potential for cooperation between Spanish companies and Vietnamese tourism stakeholders.
Technological Synergy: The Vietnam-Spain Strategic Partnership
Following the tourism discussion, the second panel, “Vietnam-Spain Strategic Partnership,” shifted the focus to technology and innovation. Moderated by Antonio Viñal Casas, Secretary General of ASEMPEA, this session explored the technological ecosystems and the role of artificial intelligence in both countries. Panelists included experts from various sectors, such as Patricia Sánchez Pacheco from CDTI and Géraldine Filippi from Amadeus.
The conversation centered on digital solutions that support energy efficiency, smart mobility, and sustainability. The panelists emphasized the importance of practical cooperation opportunities, showcasing Vietnam as a reliable technology partner for EU companies. This dialogue highlighted the mutual benefits of collaboration in technological development and digital education.
Ambassador Doan Thanh Song’s Vision
Ambassador Doan Thanh Song delivered a compelling speech, reflecting on the growing interest in strengthening collaboration between Vietnam and Spain. He noted that the presence of sponsors and guests at the forum was a testament to this burgeoning relationship. The ambassador recalled the visit of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to Vietnam, which marked a pivotal moment in enhancing political trust and expanding cooperation in various sectors.
He articulated Vietnam’s position as one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic economies, emphasizing its potential as a partner for Spain in trade, investment, and sustainable development. With a population exceeding 100 million and a rapidly growing economy, Vietnam is poised to be a key player in the region.
Vietnam’s Emerging Role in Innovation
The ambassador highlighted Vietnam’s rapid growth in the digital economy, which is expanding at an impressive rate of 38% annually. He pointed out that Vietnam is becoming a hub for innovation, particularly in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and renewable energy. This growth is supported by a commitment to sustainable development, with a national pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
Ambassador Doan Thanh Song also emphasized the opportunities for Spanish companies in Vietnam, noting the presence of leading Vietnamese technology firms like FPT and Viettel. These companies are instrumental in fostering international economic integration and technological cooperation with Europe.
Cultural Heritage and Tourism Potential
The ambassador concluded by underscoring Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, which make it an attractive destination for Spanish entrepreneurs and investors. He shared statistics indicating a growing interest in Vietnam, with nearly 98,000 Spanish tourists visiting the country in 2025. This interest reflects a desire to learn from Spain’s experience in developing high-quality, sustainable tourism.
Vietnam offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and renowned cuisine. The ambassador painted a picture of a country where visitors can experience a rich tapestry of traditions and modernity, all while enjoying the warmth and hospitality of the Vietnamese people.
A Shared Commitment to Sustainability
Both countries share a commitment to sustainability, inclusion, and long-term value creation in technology and tourism. The forum served as a platform for exploring new avenues of cooperation, particularly in areas that align with their mutual goals.
As the discussions unfolded, it became clear that the Vietnam-Spain Cooperation Forum was not just an event but a significant step towards forging a deeper partnership between two nations eager to learn from each other and grow together in the global landscape.
